Abstract Mounted within a flexible pneumatic tire is an actuator which is reciprocated radially by the normal distortion of the tire as it moves into ground-engagement, is depressed and then expands to its original position as it moves out of ground-engagement. The periodic engagement and disengagement produces a radially reciprocable movement which is used to operate an electromagnetic generator, and the energy derived from the generator is usable either for operating an electrically operable device, or the signal may be monitored to indicate tire parameter conditions such as heat, inflation pressure and other such conditions. A plurality of actuators are locatable within the tire each of which is radially displaceable by the successive engagement and disengagement of the tire with the ground, and each device is successively operative in relation to the electromagnetic generator.
Apparatus for generating electrical energy from tire flexure comprising: force transmitting means disposed within the interior of a vehicle tire and having mounting means therebetween whereby said force transmitting means is arranged to move circumferentially with said tire, an electromagnetic generating means also disposed within said tire, radially displaceable means movable radially responsively to flexure of the tire during rotation thereof, and adapted to move said force transmitting means therewith, and means converting reciprocable movement of said force transmitting means to rotary movement of a portion of said electromagnetic generating means and thereby to generate useful electrical energy.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
98 words
Apparatus for generating electrical energy from tire flexure comprising: force transmitting means disposed within the interior of a vehicle tire and having mounting means therebetween whereby said force transmitting means is arranged to move circumferentially with said tire, an electromagnetic generating means also disposed within said tire, radially displaceable means movable radially responsively to flexure of the tire during rotation thereof, and adapted to move said force transmitting means therewith, and means converting reciprocable movement of said force transmitting means to rotary movement of a portion of said electromagnetic generating means and thereby to generate useful electrical energy.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
38 words
The apparatus in accordance with claim 1 including a clutch mechanism between said force transmitting means and said electromagnetic generating means whereby displacement of a coil and core portion thereof is effected only during rotation of the tire.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
34 words
The apparatus in accordance with claim 1 including conductor means for communicating electrical energy generated from said electromagnetic generating means to an output including a signalling device, a source of illumination or the like.